The NLA news that could redefine how you prescribe GLP-1s
Key Takeaways
Industry Buzz
"Surprisingly, some of these end points seem to also benefit with weight loss independent effects, and so with relatively small amounts of weight loss with GLP-1 agonist therapy, you might have greater beneficial effects on CVD, as well as on CKD, where the other [end points] seem to be related mostly with weight loss directly itself." — Samuel Klein, MD, a professor of medicine and nutritional science at Washington University School of Medicine
The National Lipid Association 2025 Annual Scientific Sessions in Miami wrapped up on June 1. There were plenty of trends and takeaways from the conference, but one topic in particular stood out.
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (Ozempic), may offer cardiovascular and renal benefits independent of weight loss.[]
Related: NLA Sessions 2025 buzz: 4 trends docs won't stop talking aboutIt was previously thought that the results of semaglutide (weight loss) had these effects, but this finding suggests it’s the drug alone, regardless of weight loss. This suggests a broader therapeutic potential for these agents beyond their established role in glycemic control and weight management.
Cardiovascular benefits beyond weight reduction
Traditionally, the cardiovascular advantages of GLP-1 receptor agonists were attributed to weight loss and improved glycemic control.
However, recent findings indicate that semaglutide may confer cardiovascular protection through additional mechanisms.
For instance, the SELECT trial demonstrated a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) among overweight or obese individuals without diabetes, suggesting benefits that extend beyond weight loss.[]
Semaglutide has also been associated with significant reductions in nonfatal stroke rates, underscoring its potential in mitigating cerebrovascular risks.[]
Renal protection independent of weight loss
Beyond cardiovascular effects, semaglutide has shown promise in renal protection. The FLOW trial revealed that semaglutide reduced the risk of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, and cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Notably, these benefits were observed even before significant weight loss occurred, indicating mechanisms beyond adiposity reduction. []
Additionally, semaglutide has been linked to improvements in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and reductions in albuminuria, further supporting its nephroprotective properties.[]
Anti-inflammatory effects as a potential mechanism
The anti-inflammatory properties of semaglutide may underlie its cardiovascular and renal benefits. The research suggest that semaglutide reduces systemic inflammation, which is a known contributor to both cardiovascular and kidney diseases.
By mitigating inflammatory pathways, semaglutide may offer organ protection independent of its effects on weight and glucose levels.
Related: Could Ozempic slow Alzheimer’s progression?Clinical implications
These findings suggest that semaglutide's therapeutic benefits extend beyond weight management, offering cardiovascular and renal protection through mechanisms such as anti-inflammatory effects.
"Surprisingly, some of these end points seem to also benefit with weight loss independent effects, and so with relatively small amounts of weight loss with GLP-1 agonist therapy, you might have greater beneficial effects on CVD, as well as on CKD, where the other [end points] seem to be related mostly with weight loss directly itself," said Samuel Klein, MD, a professor of medicine and nutritional science at Washington University School of Medicine.[]
This broadens the potential clinical applications of GLP-1 receptor agonists in managing patients with or at risk for cardiovascular and kidney diseases, regardless of their weight status.
As research continues to uncover these benefits, clinicians may consider the multifaceted roles of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide in comprehensive patient care strategies.